This post is provided by Luca Yates.
According to a survey, forty percent of people are unhappy with their teeth. This self-consciousness causes many to hide their teeth, covering their mouths when speaking, or smiling for photographs with their mouths closed. Many people think that once they have reached adulthood, it is too late to do anything about it, but this is far from the truth. These tips will show you some ways you can improve your smile and build your confidence.
Straightening
When you think of braces, chances are you picture the unsightly lumps of metal on teeth that many teenagers are all too familiar with. The good news is that there is now another way. Clear braces are an alternative for straightening malaligned or crowded teeth with minimal effort and visibility. Companies such as Straight My Teeth offer customized invisible braces delivered to your door that can be worn during the day or the night. Appropriate candidates usually see a difference within a few months.
Whitening
A certain amount of staining is to be expected on all teeth, as a result of food, drink, and, in some people, smoking or certain medications. Although you can buy whitening toothpastes and home-whitening kits, professional whitening is the best option as it is safer and provides better results. First, the teeth are cleaned thoroughly to remove plaque and tartar, then they are usually coated in a special gel before being exposed to a special light or laser.
Veneers
Veneers are thin layers of medical grade porcelain which are bonded onto the front of existing teeth using a dental adhesive. They are usually used to improve the look of cracked, broken or damaged teeth, and can also be made in a lighter shade to improve the color of teeth. They are custom-made to match the rest of your teeth and therefore look quite natural.
Composite Bonding
People with decay, cracks or worn-down teeth often consider composite bonding, a process which uses a resin closely matching the natural tooth color. After preparing the natural tooth by removing any decay and applying an adhesive coating, the resin is applied to the tooth and molded into the correct shape. This is then hardened by a UV light before being finished and polished.
Implants
Dental implants can be used when a tooth, or teeth, have been lost. This procedure is more intensive than the others listed, and involves a titanium screw being placed into the jaw for the crown or denture to attach to. The procedure is done under local anesthetic, and sedation if preferred. Over time, the jawbone fuses to the screw, making the implant permanent and very natural-looking.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to keep your teeth healthy. Regular brushing, and using mouthwash and floss will help to keep your teeth and whole mouth clean and healthy. A healthy diet is also key to keeping teeth and gums healthy and strong, so regardless of whether you choose to have one of the procedures listed above, ensure you look after your teeth too.